New Leadership Elected, Bylaws Updated, and Committees Strengthened for the Future
The California Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (CAL EANGUS) successfully concluded its 2026 Annual State Conference in Long Beach, California, bringing together association leaders and members both in person and virtually via Zoom. The conference provided an opportunity to reflect on the association’s accomplishments, strengthen its organizational foundation, and establish priorities for the future.
Throughout the conference, members engaged in meaningful discussions and took important steps to ensure CAL EANGUS remains an effective voice for California’s enlisted National Guard members, retirees, veterans, and their families.
Strengthening the Association
A significant focus of this year’s conference was improving organizational effectiveness and ensuring that our committees have clearly defined roles and responsibilities.
Members reviewed and established committee duties and responsibilities, helping create a stronger framework for accountability, collaboration, and continued progress. Committee representatives also provided reports highlighting their ongoing activities, accomplishments, and priorities.
Additionally, members reviewed and approved updates to the association’s bylaws. These changes will help guide future operations, strengthen governance, and ensure CAL EANGUS continues to evolve to meet the needs of its membership.
These efforts represent an important investment in the association’s long-term success and reinforce our commitment to transparency, member involvement, and effective leadership.
Introducing the 2027 CAL EANGUS Board of Directors
One of the highlights of the conference was the election of new association leadership. CAL EANGUS is pleased to announce the following individuals who will serve on the Board of Directors beginning January 1, 2027:
- President: Kristi Caldwell
- Vice President: Janet Graves
- Member at Large (Life): Keith Ford
- Member at Large (Life): Susan Hernandez
- Member at Large (Annual): Salli Sablan
- Immediate Past President: AJ Johnson
These leaders bring valuable experience, dedication, and a shared commitment to advocating for California’s enlisted National Guard community. As they prepare to assume their new responsibilities, we look forward to the fresh perspectives, energy, and leadership they will bring to the association.
Recognizing Our Outgoing Leadership
CAL EANGUS extends its sincere appreciation to our outgoing Board of Directors for their tireless dedication and service.
Serving on the board is a volunteer commitment that requires countless hours of work, often behind the scenes. From supporting legislative advocacy and membership initiatives to coordinating events, scholarships, and programs benefiting our military community, our board members have consistently demonstrated their commitment to the association’s mission.
Their leadership has helped advance CAL EANGUS, strengthen our partnerships, and ensure the voices of California’s enlisted National Guard members and families continue to be heard.
We especially thank outgoing President AJ Johnson for her leadership, dedication, and commitment to advancing CAL EANGUS. As she transitions into the role of Immediate Past President, her experience, institutional knowledge, and continued involvement will remain valuable assets to the incoming board and the association.
To all outgoing board members: Thank you for your service, your leadership, and your commitment to making CAL EANGUS stronger.
Thank You to Our Members
We also extend our appreciation to everyone who participated in this year’s conference, whether joining us in Long Beach or connecting virtually through Zoom.
Member engagement is the foundation of a successful association. Your participation in discussions, committee activities, bylaw updates, and elections helps shape the direction of CAL EANGUS and ensures that our organization continues to represent the interests of those we serve.
As we prepare for the transition to our newly elected leadership, we encourage members to become more involved in association committees, legislative advocacy, membership outreach, and other opportunities to make a difference.
Looking Ahead to 2027
With updated bylaws, clearly established committee responsibilities, and a new Board of Directors preparing to take office, CAL EANGUS is well-positioned to build upon its accomplishments.
Our mission remains unchanged: to advocate for, support, and improve the lives of California’s enlisted National Guard members, retirees, veterans, and their families.
The success of our association depends on the dedication of our volunteer leaders and the active participation of our membership. Together, we will continue strengthening our voice, expanding our impact, and ensuring that California’s enlisted National Guard community has the representation and support it deserves.
New leadership. Renewed energy. One united mission.
